shop and establishment act

The Shop and Establishment Act is a state-specific labor law in India designed to regulate the working conditions, rights, and obligations of employers and employees in shops and commercial establishments.

🔍 What is the Shop and Establishment Act?
This act applies to:

Shops

Commercial establishments (e.g., offices, banks, insurance companies)

Hotels, restaurants, and eateries

Theatres and amusement parks

Warehouses and storerooms

Each state has its own version of the Act (e.g., Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Act, Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, etc.), though the broad principles are similar.

📜 Key Provisions of the Act
Registration Requirement

Businesses must register within 30 days of starting operations.

Registration certificate must be displayed at the workplace.

Regulation of Working Hours

Maximum working hours per day/week.

Overtime rules and compensation.

Rest Intervals & Weekly Holidays

Mandatory breaks.

One weekly off is required.

Wages and Leave Policies

Guidelines for wage payment.

Earned, sick, and casual leaves.

Employment of Children and Women

Restrictions on employment of minors.

Protection for women workers, especially in night shifts.

Health and Safety

Cleanliness, lighting, ventilation, and hygiene.

Fire safety and emergency exits.

Records to be Maintained

Attendance registers

Salary records

Leave records

📝 Why is it Important?
Legal Compliance: Mandatory for most businesses.

Employee Rights: Ensures fair treatment of workers.

License Requirement: Required for bank accounts, GST registration, or trade licenses.

🖥️ How to Register
Visit the Labour Department website of your respective state and:

Create an account

Fill out the online application

Upload required documents

Pay the fee

Download the certificate